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We purchased and tested the 18 best GPS watches from Apple, Garmin, Coros, Suunto, and more to help you find the perfect watch for training and adventures
We purchased and tested the best GPS watches side by side, including options from Garmin, Apple, Suunto, Coros, Polar, Amazfit, and Fitbit.
A GPS watch can be a handy sidekick for the backcountry, fitness training, or daily activities, providing you with accurate navigation, health metrics, and even the ability to answer phone calls.
Over the last decade, our team of experts has purchased and tested more than 50 of the best GPS watches, with the top 18 in our current lineup. We logged more than 15 training hours per week, testing each model to assess features and nuances, including battery life, ease of use, and accuracy.
The Garmin Forerunner 970 is our favorite overall model. We love the feature-rich, lightweight design, long battery life, and exceptional accuracy. If you can't splurge on a premium model, the Suunto Run is a great value purchase that also offers incredible accuracy. If you need a particularly long battery life, the Coros Pace 3 is another affordable option.
Editor's Note: We updated our review of GPS watches on November 18, 2025, to add new watches from Garmin, Apple, and Suunto.
Accurate dual-frequency GPS and heart rate monitor
CONS
Some may prefer MIP for longer battery life
Expensive
The Garmin Forerunner 970 is built for runners and multi-sport athletes who demand performance and dependability. The dual-frequency GPS and the upgraded Elevate 5 HR sensor provide this watch with industry-leading accuracy. The vibrant AMOLED display is among the best Garmin has ever produced. The newest Forerunner now features a dedicated flashlight, a speaker and mic for calls, and electrocardiogram (ECG) tracking. The slim titanium build, endless sport modes, and highly customizable data screens make this great for athletes who like to dive into the details. Matthew, our lead tester, explains, “This is the model I recommend to all serious athletes who want the lightest GPS watch with the most expansive feature set”.
The biggest drawback of the Forerunner 970 is the significant price increase over its predecessor, the Forerunner 965. Battery life on the 970 still trails that of the Garmin solar models, like the Fenix Solar 8, and MIP models, like the Enduro 3. Some may also find the smaller screen, due to the smaller case size, less helpful for navigation. Still, these are minor concerns for a very refined GPS watch. If you're a serious athlete who prioritizes performance over smartwatch integration, the Garmin Forerunner 970 is the top option. That said, iPhone users – especially folks who prioritize convenient smartwatch features over performance – should compare this watch against the Apple Watch Ultra 3. If you don't need the latest and greatest but still want a solid GPS watch for running, check out the Suunto Run.
The Suunto Run strikes an excellent balance between performance and price, offering a bright AMOLED display and near-flagship-level accuracy. Both the dual-frequency satellite and HR monitor offer reliable readings. The lightweight 36-gram build feels like a feather on your wrist, yet it remains durable thanks to a stainless-steel bezel. Multiple strap options, which are easily interchangeable, offer a perfect fit for any wrist. Recovery metrics, offline MP3 music, and daily health widgets round out the smaller but focused feature set. Our lead tester commented, “I was very impressed with the Run. Its performance for the price is outstanding, and this is the model I recommend to folks who don't need a ton of software features. If you're only worried about GPS tracking, this is an excellent option.”
SPECIFICATIONS
Measured Body Diameter
45.55 mm
Screen Type
AMOLED
Measured Thickness
14.0 mm
Measured Battery Life with GPS
19 hours
Sensors Included
Heart rate, altimeter, barometer, compass
While the Suunto Run is certainly a value-packed option with performance that rivals more expensive options, it still makes a few compromises to reach this price point. Battery life is respectable, but a bit too short for multi-day ultras and adventures. Some smartwatch features are lacking, or may feel a bit less clean than premium models, like the Garmin Forerunner 970. The Suunto Run notably lacks useful features like Garmin and Apple Pay, sleep scores, and breadcrumb-only mapping. On the other hand, while those leading models continue to get buried by increasingly useless features, you can be confident with the Suunto Run that your dollars are going to features you'll actually use. Much like its older sibling – the Suunto Race, which offers increased battery life and a bit better accuracy – the Run was built for athletes who care more about a clean user interface than deep smartwatch integration.
If we were to recommend one GPS watch that caters to the widest range of folks, it would undoubtedly be the Coros Pace 3. This model keeps its edge in the budget-friendly sector of the market. It offers outstanding battery life without adding extra weight or bulk. With 30+ hours of GPS usage or up to two weeks of typical daily use, frequent charging isn't necessary. If your goal is to minimize the distractions often associated with smartwatches, the streamlined design of the Pace 3 is a prime choice. “I found the simplicity extremely appealing,” our lead tester said. Both dedicated athletes and individuals focused on daily health metrics could get a lot out of this watch.
Although we were pleasantly surprised by its durability, don't expect a ton of premium materials on the Pace 3. In the world of GPS watches, a rugged design typically commands a higher price tag. While adding a touchscreen to this latest model is a positive feature, we prefer the rolling crown, with dedicated buttons, as our favorite. Still, if you're in the market for an ultralight GPS watch that offers great accuracy and battery life without breaking the bank, the Coros Pace 3 comes highly recommended. The Garmin Forerunner 165 is also excellent and nearly matches the Pace 3. It has an AMOLED display and dedicated buttons, which is something to consider if you can handle less battery life. Another great budget option is the Coros Apex 2.
The Pace 3 has the potential to cater to a broad range of folks with its lower price point and long battery life, and it's not clumsy or bulky to wear.
The Garmin Enduro 3 is a top choice for serious ultra-athletes and folks undertaking extended expeditions. Its lightweight design, affordability, and enhanced solar charging capabilities make it a practical alternative to the costly Fenix series, which now includes features that some users may find unnecessary. The Enduro 3's standout feature is its 320-hour solar-powered GPS tracking, housed in a durable titanium body. However, its single, large 51 mm case size may not appeal to all users. Despite this limitation, the Enduro's improved screen resolution, UltraFit nylon strap, and durable build make it an ideal companion for intense outdoor activities.
In terms of performance, the Enduro 3 delivers excellent GPS and heart rate accuracy, and its large screen lets users view more data at a glance without sacrificing readability. It includes all essential Garmin features, such as multi-GNSS tracking, an altimeter, and a barometer, making it versatile for various sports and expedition settings. Garmin's intuitive touch screen and button interface enhance usability, and extensive health metrics can be accessed via the Garmin Connect app. Additionally, its superior battery life and unique flashlight feature make it especially useful for prolonged activities in remote areas. Although pricier options like the Fenix series may suit those who need dive features or a built-in microphone, the Enduro 3 offers exceptional value and functionality for outdoor endurance athletes. If you aren't hooked on Garmin, check out the Coros Vertix 2s, which has a smaller form factor but similar performance.
The Apple Ultra Watch 3 refines what is already the best smartwatch available for athletes and adventurers. The new display is brighter and more power-efficient, leading to better battery life. Satellite capabilities are now available for folks with a cellular plan (SOS is available for all models). Health tracking continues to lead the industry with excellent UI and phone integration. There is now a sleep score, hypertension detection (pending FDA approval), and the return of a blood oxygen metric. The construction of the Ultra 3 remains unchanged from previous designs, besides colorways. “Aside from its excellent accuracy, the software and UI on the Ultra remain my favorite for phone-related tasks,” noted our lead tester.
Despite these improvements, there are times when the Ultra 3 feels more like a premium smartwatch than a useful tool in our outdoor toolkit. The casual user is less likely to mind these small critiques, whereas serious athletes may want to consider other options. Data screens on the Garmin Forerunner 970 and Suunto Run are more readable, customizable, and informative. Battery life on the Ultra 3 is also a concern for those who track multiple hours of activity every day. Multi-day ultras and backpacking trips are better suited to a watch like the Garmin Enduro 3 – extended outings may make the Ultra 3 feel more like a liability than a tool. However, if you're after the everyday convenience of smartphone integration, an excellent UI, and still very reasonable athletic performance, the Ultra 3 is the watch for you.
The Fitbit Charge 6 is the simplest device we tested — like a fitness tracker with bonus GPS capabilities. “I found it's the perfect watch for anyone who doesn't need a large device,” our lead reviewer stated. One small screen is all you need for tracking your daily walks, steps, and sleep. We were also impressed with the GPS recording, and while it won't last super long, it's more than enough for daily workouts. Many GPS watches offer an overwhelming number of features. If you've felt this way when looking through the options, the simplicity of the Charge 6 might be perfect for you.
SPECIFICATIONS
Measured Body Diameter
23.1 mm
Screen Type
AMOLED
Measured Thickness
11.2 mm
Measured Battery Life with GPS
8 hours
Sensors Included
Heart rate, temperature, blood oxygen level
Fitbit has been around for a long time, and they've positioned themselves more in health tracking than activity usage. Their mobile companion app is great and offers many different health information options. With Fitbit Premium, you have access to a library of coaches and different classes similar to Peloton. For serious athletes, you will likely want a full screen to view your data, but if you just need the basics, this is the model for you. If you need more than just the basics, we say upgrade to the Garmin Forerunner 165 or Coros Pace 3
The Fitbit Charge 6 has a slimmer fit that's perfect for those who don't like the look of a larger GPS watch.
Credit: Matthew Richardson
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Testing of GPS watches occurs in a wide variety of conditions. Here, the new Coros watches get tested on a frigid morning of ice climbing in Colorado.
Credit: Matthew Richardson
How We Tested
We purchase each watch at full retail, just like you, before diving into testing. From days out running, skiing, climbing, and biking, we analyze the features, accuracy, and usability. Our team is proud to share our recommendations and help you find the best GPS watch for your needs.
Our GPS watch testing is divided into six rating metrics:
This review is headed up by Matthew Richardson. Matthew works with maps for a living and spends his free time outdoors surrounding Durango, Colorado. He uses a GPS watch daily and has completed some big outings, such as a solo ride on the Colorado Trail and linking up the Chicago Basin 14ers in a day. He has personally tested and retested every watch in this lineup over the last several years and deeply understands every feature and nuance.
Testing GPS watches in various terrains and while doing various activities gives a clearer picture of their capabilities.
Analysis and Test Results
There are many GPS watches on the market these days, and finding the one that fits your needs can be a tough project. We sampled the market's current best and tested them to see how they compare side-by-side.
GPS watches are an investment, and your usage level should determine your price point. If you're looking to get into the entry-level GPS watch market and want a watch purely for tracking distance and heart rate, we suggest one of the following models:
These are great entry-level models that will satisfy most users with their tracking abilities. However, they will not include many of the metrics that modern athletes often demand, features that allow you to track and plan your training more closely.
Wait for last season's watch to go on sale. These are typically loaded with many of the same functions, and you can get them for a fraction of the retail cost.
The Suunto Run is priced at the lower end of our lineup, but still offers a good combination of features and battery life. The uncomplicated GPS watch offers great accuracy with minimal frills. The Suunto Race is slightly more expensive but features better battery life and a higher-quality build.
Testing side-by-side gives us unique insight into what models excel for certain applications.
Accuracy
We know that accurate GPS recordings and metrics are important. Nobody wants wonky elevation data or elevated heart rate stats, especially with the cost of today's devices. We've been impressed with the watches in our test group, each performing adequately across the price ranges. Luckily, all the watches we tested now feature multi-band GPS satellite recording, with some even working in multi-frequency. GPS signal strength, satellite location, watch fit, and internal hardware all have a large impact on device accuracy.
To evaluate the accuracy of each watch, we ran, biked, and hiked known distances to compare our watches and their track metrics. We also tested the watches deep in the canyons of Utah. Canyons are notoriously bad for GPS watches due to the limited open line of sight. All of the GPS watches we tested had good accuracy that we would trust. Most gave us smooth tracks that consistently stayed within 1-3% of the actual measured distance. Multi-band satellites produced the best results; those with dual-frequency performed even better. It's important to keep in mind that these advanced features generally use more battery, but these devices already have sufficient battery life to perform these tasks. With dual frequency becoming more standard, pretty much all of the premium models across the brands have excellent GPS accuracy.
We analyzed all of the GPS tracks provided by the units. A) Our steep hill test showing accuracy in steep terrain. B) Winners of our steep hill test - these had the most uniform tracks without errors. C) All devices performed well on city streets. D) Long open straightaways also led to good GPS tracks for all units.
Credit: Matthew Richardson
Testing heart rate monitors is quite a challenge. We observed heart rate data during runs and compared it with information from a chest strap heart monitor. We also compared these to stationary numbers for the accuracy of daily health stats. Wrist-based heart rate sensors have improved dramatically, and when the fit is snug, they're now surprisingly close to chest strap accuracy. Still, small variations can occur from movement, sweat, or loose placement, so athletes wanting the most precise data for intervals or testing should stick with a dedicated chest strap.
Heart Rate Monitor Accuracy
One important thing to note regarding optical heart rate monitors — which every GPS watch uses — is that they do not provide quality data for people with dark skin, tattoos, or large amounts of hair or sweat under the monitor. This is because they use photoplethysmography (PPG): light reflected back from your arteries indicates your heart rate. Everything from outside light to bursts of activity, and interference from hair, melanin, tattoo ink, sweat, etc., can all affect readings.
The Garmin Forerunner 970, Fenix 8 Solar, and Garmin Enduro 3 were almost spot on, with a good fit on our wrist and an average variation of less than one beat per minute. The Suunto Race, Suunto Run & Amazfit T Rex 3 also performed excellently. With the updated HR monitor found on the Coros models, they are more accurate than ever before, also coming within a variation of just 2-4 bpm. The unique rectangular design of the Apple Watch Ultra 3 fits well on our wrist, and when paired with its excellent sensor, this matches our leading Garmin models using the Elevate 5 sensor.
The Amazfit Active Edge's TLT display is easy to see in a variety of sun conditions, we wish the model had an always on display mode so we could see it without fully rotating our wrist while running.
Credit: Matthew Richardson
Activity Use
GPS watches have continued to evolve to become full computers on your wrist, with many containing many of the features of your smartphone. However, our main priority with GPS watches is their activity usage. Most of our testing team are serious athletes and depend on an accurate GPS watch that makes their workout experience better and more informed. While there are many different watches in our lineup, they all have the ability to record your heart rate and track your route via GPS.
During our testing, we came to the conclusion that you really can't go wrong with any watch in our test group. Each has the ability to provide you with a great GPS track and give you on-screen data like heart rate, mileage, and pace. Some perform better than others, and your main sport should determine which model is best for you.
For running, we'd recommend a few options from Garmin and Coros, specifically the Garmin Forerunner 165, Garmin Forerunner 970, Coros Pace 3, and Coros Apex 2. For rugged trail running and long periods of time, we say go for the Garmin Fenix 8 Solar. If you want a simpler interface with strong running accuracy at a lower price, add the Suunto Run to your shortlist.
The AMOLED display on the Forerunner 970 is bright and easily readable in all lighting conditions.
Credit: Matthew Richardson
For rugged activities, such as climbing, skiing, mountaineering, or backcountry backpacking, we'd recommend the Garmin Enduro 3, Garmin Fenix 8 Solar, or Coros Vertix 2S.
A more robust watch is a good idea when climbing or backpacking.
Credit: Matthew Richardson
Everyday Use
Ease of use is important when using a watch, both during activity and during your daily life. These products should enhance your life, not make it more difficult. The models that scored highest were those we felt were the easiest to use and provided the best user experience. Integration of mobile apps was also taken into consideration when determining user experience. Keep in mind that a product with a long list of features may take some time to learn the ins and outs of.
There are many similarities between brands, with the interface on the less expensive watches mimicking those found on top-of-the-line models. You will see there isn't as much range in our rankings for this metric — this is due to the similarities of the interfaces. If you can use the Coros Vertix 2S, you will instantly be able to use the Coros Apex 2 — same for the Fenix 8 Solar and Forerunner 970.
The Coros Vertix 2S does a great job of providing endless battery life for daily health tracking while putting in heavy training loads.
Credit: Matthew Richardson
All of the Garmin products feature dedicated buttons, except the Garmin Vivoactive 5, which is a great smartwatch option from Garmin. All of the Coros models feature a scroll wheel, with all new models containing a touch screen that is now accessible throughout all menu systems.
Unlike other models from Garmin, the Vivoactive doesn't have buttons, and instead features a touch screen for navigation.
Credit: Matthew Richardson
Ultimately, it's hard to say which brand is easiest to use because they are each different yet similar. Their methods of interaction are their biggest differences, and we would suggest deciding on whether you like the idea of a scroll wheel or dedicated buttons. Internally, the menu systems are essentially the same, with a few minor differences.
The Apple Watch Ultra 3 impressed us with its feature set and how easy it is to use these features. It's really no surprise that Apple was able to incorporate its beloved design into this more rugged model. Setting up and customizing notifications and the layout is a breeze with the watch app. As watch companion apps continue to get better, we are impressed with the amount of customization available, with each brand becoming quite good.
A look at the activity screen on the Ultra 3, and some of the common short keys using the orange action button.
Credit: Matthew Richardson
The Suunto products all scored a bit lower here, as we felt their menu systems were the hardest to learn and use. Even after hours of using their products, the menus still felt unintuitive compared to some of the others. The Suunto Vertical Titanium Solar and Suunto Race have very nice touch screens that aid in ease of use, but oftentimes, the action button would change. For example, to start an activity, you use the large central button, but to stop the activity, you use a different button.
Both the Suunto Run and Suunto Vertical are beautiful watches with dependable accuracy and a good feature set.
Apps are another consideration in this metric. Of all the manufacturers we reviewed, Garmin Connect has the most features, and some recent design updates have catapulted it to be one of our favorite user interfaces today. Suunto and Coros have apps that are more stripped-down, less integrated, and easier to use overall. Suunto has a really beautiful layout that integrates photos, which we enjoyed. These apps were easier to figure out compared to Garmin, though none offer the same social ecosystem. Luckily, they all cross over to different ecosystems like Strava. You can also sync your data from these apps to the Apple Health app, which we think provides the best health metric visualization.
Lastly, the Fitbit Charge 6 was very easy to use and got an award for being the best at the basics. For less serious athletes or those who simply want to do some recorded walks but have all-day health tracking, this is the model for you. GPS watches can be complicated, and we realize not everyone needs all the data visualization. We've started to include some of these simpler devices in our testing to appeal to a wider range of users.
Looking at the apps between brands, they are all fairly clear and easy to use.
Extra Features
The variety of feature sets in today's market mimics the wide range of pricing. Across all the devices we tested, a roughly 1-second interval GPS recording and heart rate monitors are the minimum. A higher price tag generally equates to more internal software features. The most advanced watches have features like flashlights, blood oxygen readings, topographic maps, and a suite of smartwatch-enabled features. Some features lend themselves to urban usage, while others are great for expeditions into unfamiliar terrain. Keep in mind your usage scenario and try to purchase a watch based on the features you will actually use.
The Apple Watch Ultra 3 and Garmin Fenix 8 Solar received the highest scores in this category, with the Garmin Forerunner 970 and Garmin Enduro 3 nipping at their heels. These models feature advanced GPS tracking (MULTI GNSS), lots of activity profiles, advanced health metric stats, and premium topo maps for navigation. The new Fenix has voice assistance that can be used offline or via your phone's Bluetooth connection. Dive modes are now included, which were previously only available on dive-specific models.
With thousands of apps to choose from, the Apple Ultra 3 has the most extensive app catalog of any watch we tested.
Credit: Matthew Richardson
One of our favorite recent features is a real dedicated flashlight on some of the latest premium models from Garmin — which is far superior to the bright screen mode found on other devices. The beam can be shone at a much more natural wrist angle, making it a good backup for evening runs or finding things in the middle of the night. Both white and LED light are available on the Garmin Instinct 3, Enduro 3, Fenix 8, Forerunner 970
The dedicated white/red LED flashlight is a huge favorite of ours, it gives peace of mind on evening runs and helps minimize stumbling through a dark room at night.
Credit: Matthew Richardson
Some features that are desirable to some people may be useless to others. While we make note of the main features in our rating table at the top of this article, we suggest checking out the spec sheets via each brand's website to view the most current, detailed feature lists and get info on additional software updates. The user interfaces found on the brands we tested are similar to a phone ecosystem — each has its own style of operating system (OS). For example, an iPhone model behaves similarly to other iPhones and vice versa for Android. This is the current state of the GPS market when comparing brands.
We tested each GPS watch in a variety of conditions. Here, you can see our lead tester Matthew on an evening hike using the navigation features found on the Suunto Vertical Titanium Solar.
Credit: Matthew Richardson
The Apple Watch Ultra 3 takes smartwatch off-grid capabilities further with new satellite SOS, two-way texting, and Find My updates. (SOS is available for everyone, while texting and Find My updates only apply to users with an active cellular plan.) It still handles calls, messages, and Siri voice control with ease, all within Apple's polished and intuitive interface. While battery life takes a hit with heavy GPS or display use, the Ultra 3 remains the most capable and connected option for anyone who wants reliability both on and off the grid.
The satellite SOS capabilities on the Ultra 3 give you peace of mind. (Note that messaging still requires an active cellular plan, even without service.)
Credit: Matthew Richardson
Wearability
When considering design, we took a close look at the way each watch fits on the wrist and any notable issues with it during use. This included looking at the size and thickness of the body, using under clothing, accidentally turning buttons on and off, and the clarity of the screen. We also considered aesthetics, which will vary from person to person. Pick the design you like best that fits your budget, and see how the externals stack up between each model.
We used these watches for all-day use, and our opinions will reflect that. If you have a dedicated wristwatch that will take priority over your active GPS watch, take that into consideration. We prioritize premium materials and a good design since this is something we wear 24/7 — except while charging. The sleekest design and best for small wrists is the Garmin Forerunner 165 — we are impressed with the amount of technology packed into this unit. The Garmin Forerunner 970 also has a super-thin design that works great for running. Both the new Suunto Vertical Titanium Solar and Suunto Race are standouts in the lineup for design, and they are easily our favorites, offering titanium or stainless steel construction and an excellent bezel. The 36 g Suunto Run is the lightest watch we've tested.
Suunto continues to impress with its great design and build quality.
We appreciate that Apple went against the grain, creating a unique design. The rectangular shape of the Apple Watch Ultra 3 may not be for everyone, but it was a favorite of our team. The titanium bezel and ceramic back feel both rugged and premium. The always-on display is vibrant and easy to read under any sun conditions. The standard watch face is awesome-looking, and the adjustable red mode is perfect for a night under the stars. We hope other brands start incorporating this level of detail and precision into their units. The Suunto Race also has an excellent AMOLED screen similar to Apple's OLED display. For those who want the brightest displays, we'd recommend these two models.
The Garmin Forerunner 165 has an impressive touchscreen that works in situations where most would fail.
Credit: Matthew Richardson
We recommend the Garmin Enduro 3 or Vertix 2S for those looking for a more rugged design. Both of these watches are made with high-quality materials and are durable enough to withstand years of abuse. The 51 mm case size of the Vertix 2S is great for those with a bigger wrist or who like the commanding-looking screen and bezel. If your primary activity is running, we would stick with the 47 mm case size of the Garmin Forerunner 970 or Fenix models. The weight difference is noticeable for activities with a lot of arm movement.
Lower temperatures can run a battery down. Impressively, this was not the case with the Coros Pace 3.
Credit: Matthew Richardson
The Garmin Fenix 8 Solar has an excellent screen design, with the best contrast and brightness out of any of the MIP screens we tested. The data fields pop, and the numbers are bolder than those on the Coros models. We found glancing at the data fields while running technical terrain to be the most fluid and natural. If you aren't doing intense activities, this may be less of a priority for you.
Solar watches, like the Garmin Fenix 8 Solar or Enduro 3, are great for extending your battery life.
Credit: Matthew Richardson
Similarly important, the dedicated buttons on the Garmin models make accessing the data screens easier while under intense activities. The scroll wheel found on the Coros models tends to be bumped accidentally, requiring a lockout mode to be enabled. This is easily disabled, but it does create one extra step. We like the action and sureness of dedicated physical buttons, but if you use the swipe touchscreen feature or auto-scroll, this may be less important to you.
From a design standpoint this is one of our favorite watches and Polar's use of premium materials is noticed even if it does come at a cost.
Credit: Matthew Richardson
The Polar Grit X2 Pro impresses with a rugged yet sleek titanium design and a vibrant 1.39-inch AMOLED display protected by sapphire glass. Its low-profile case sits comfortably on the wrist during all-day wear and training. With responsive buttons and touchscreen controls, it's built for versatility in harsh or everyday environments.
Our lead tester Matthew testing the latest Coros watches running in snowy Colorado.
Credit: Matthew Richardson
Battery Life
For any distance athlete, battery life is probably one of the biggest factors to consider when buying a watch. Battery life is affected by many things, including your route, GPS signal, coverage, the number of apps you have turned on/off, the battery mode you have set, and how long you run your device. As a result, we appreciate that many of the watches we tested have battery modes and profiles that make it easy to turn on/off various features at once without having to dig through the menus.
We performed many battery tests. The first was a more subjective in-field test where we charged up the battery and used the watch normally, day in and day out. We noted how long the watch took to die while incorporating 2-3 activities each week, about 1-3 hours in length. We then compared manufacturers' claims to the actual results that we got.
The MIP screen is easy to view in a variety of weather and sun conditions. We continue to prefer MIP due to its battery performance and always on display. If you want the brightest clearest display, look at some AMOLED options.
Credit: Matthew Richardson
Next, we tested the GPS by setting each watch out in the same area under the open sky and running them down until they turned off. We noted the time taken to reach this point and, if any, went into a battery-saver mode to enhance battery life.
We realize this test won't tell you the specific number of hours you'll get during real GPS activity, but it gives us an idea of which watches last longer than others and the quality of the data. In addition, we also took each watch on at least 50 miles of activities, noting the amount of battery used for the time of the activity.
The Coros Vertix 2S has impressive battery life, with over 110 hours of GPS recording time and up to 40 days of continuous use.
Credit: Matthew Richardson
Make sure to consider the types of adventures and the length of time you anticipate using your device. Most of these models can charge while recording, but we would recommend choosing the one that best fits your needs to avoid having to do this. We think 24 hours of GPS tracking is a good place to start for most people, and to increase only if you know you'll need more. Realize that a battery is a trade-off in terms of features gained/lost or changes to the case size.
When looking at stats for the watches in our lineup, it's important to remember that there is a rough correlation between case size and battery life. A larger case means a physically larger battery, which, in turn, generally has more capacity. That said, many things factor into this. We scored this metric objectively based on the battery life with GPS running. Also, keep in mind that our scores are comparative, so a lower score simply means that a product had less battery life compared to others in the lineup — this is not indicative of a faulty or sub-par battery.
If your priority is a smartwatch that seemingly never dies, then you might consider a solar watch, like the Suunto Vertical Titanium Solar, Garmin Enduro 3, or Fenix 8 Solar. You will want to have reliable solar energy available to charge the watch, and minimal percentage gains are made while GPS is running, so you will want to have a power backup if you are planning to use a lot of GPS tracking.
With top-quality construction and top-tier features set, the Garmin Fenix 8 is the most premium GPS watch we tested.
Credit: Matthew Richardson
For maximum battery usage, the Coros models excel across their range. The battery life on the Vertix 2S is impressive, with almost 120 hours of MULTI GNSS tracking. Some people could complete the entire Colorado Trail on their bikes without ever charging their watch! Coros products are known for their battery life, and it's clearly a priority throughout their whole range. The Coros Apex Pro 2 is another model that excels by having extended battery life and roughly 75 hours of GPS. The new Suunto Vertical Titanium Solar also excels at battery life, providing roughly 85 hours of GPS recording thanks to the solar screen. Its slightly larger 49 mm case size gives it a bump up over the competition of the flagship 47 mm size models that Garmin and Coros offer.
A great option for smaller wrists or someone who prefers a lighter GPS watch is the Forerunner 165.
Credit: Matthew Richardson
We appreciate a watch with good battery-saver options and modes. However, this may be less of a priority for Coros to implement, given their industry-leading battery life. The Apple Watch Ultra 3 scored low in the battery metric due to the always-on display. There is a low-power mode, but the battery life still doesn't quite measure up to some other options. This is one major consideration to take into account if you are planning on purchasing a model with an AMOLED display. Personally, we like having the watch face always displayed; this will drastically reduce battery life, so take this into consideration.
We kept everything set to default settings when running our battery tests — in the condition that most people will start using their watches. Turn off notifications and other functions you don't need before your activity to extend battery life.
Across our entire lineup, there is a GPS watch that fits anyone's battery needs. If your main priority is battery life, the Coros models are the clear winner. Consider the longest time you expect to be out and choose a watch that best matches your needs.
Our testers went to great lengths… and heights… to get the most out of these watches.
Credit: Matthew Richardson
Conclusion
Buying a GPS watch is a big decision and a significant investment. You should check out our reviews for a more in-depth look at the various models we tested. If you're hoping to get remote and want to pair your watch with a satellite communicator or juice it back up with a solar charger, we've tested those too.
You might find yourself researching for weeks or even months before finding the right one at the right price. We hope our insights and in-depth comparative research have helped you find confidence in taking the plunge into this investment. Take our thoughts and use cases and determine what's most important to you. There is a GPS watch here for everyone, and we hope this makes your decision process a little easier. Have fun out there!
